Pug’s Place
Pug’s Place is a musical puppet film that tells the story of Pug, the host of a children’s television show who every day is asked a question, and every day supplies an answer to the viewers at home. However, when Pug is asked the question “Why Do We Exist?” what follows is a journey of music, comedy, and existential dread. Pug struggles to supply his audience with an answer and in the process comes to terms with his own existence and purpose.
The runtime of the film is approximately 35 minutes. This film is recommended for ages 12+. Following the screening of the film there will be a brief talkback with creator Jerry Harney, moderated by UConn Puppet Arts Visiting Assistant Professor in Residence Matt Sorensen.
Screenings are free to attend but seating is limited, so reservations are required.
Reserve your free tickets at https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/bimp-0/pugs-place. For more information about these screenings or if you require accommodation to attend this event, please contact Ballard Institute staff at 860-486-8580 or bimp@uconn.edu.
About the Artist
UConn Puppet Arts graduate student Jerry Harney is a puppet artist and filmmaker who centers on television-style puppetry. Utilizing the nostalgic qualities of television puppetry, Jerry instills his characters and stories with a depth that audiences might not expect from fleece and foam characters. Imbuing them with a sense of introspection and humanity, Jerry’s work highlights what makes the form so unique and effective. Jerry is the writer, director, composer, lead puppet builder and puppeteer of Pug in the film.
LET’S EAT!
Enjoy dinner in Downtown Storrs before the show. With over twenty restaurants serving up cuisines from around the globe, there’s something to fit every budget and please every palate - all within walking distance of the Ballard Institute & Museum of Puppetry! See what’s cooking here.
Pictured: Kathmandu Kitchen & Bar
PARKING: Parking is available in the Downtown Storrs Parking Garage (33 Royce Circle), which is free for your first two hours and just $1/hour thereafter. The garage is about a 2-minute walk from the Ballard Institute.